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Monday, June 23, 2014

UNSUNG HEROES

While watching my nephew and his bride rehearse for their wedding, I sat with an old friend---who is also a pastor's wife. Our early relationship began with my friendship with her mother and it has grown over time. She inherited her mother's gracious and kind spirit and is always a joy to visit. What a blessing to pick up where you left off and to know hers as she knows mine when speaking of our children and grands. I left the conversation thankful for Facebook---which has kept us connected across the miles.After parting, I began thinking of her and all the pastor's wives I have had the privilege of knowing over the years. The truly are unsung heroes! Somehow we congregants get the impression we own the pastor and he has an obligation to be present at each and every family event we deem important. We forget they have families and lives too--and our needs often supersede any they might have. We call upon them to be our spiritual mentors, financial advisers, relationship counselors, grief advocate, medical support, travel agent, and trip co-coordinator---to mention only a few. It is a HUGE job---and back home--who keeps the fires burning, food on the table, clothes clean and pressed, children in line, while also expected to teach SS, sing in the choir, chair the Women's Ministry, provide a venue for all meetings, and cook/clean/babysit for any in need---HIS WIFE! I have a great deal of respect and admiration for those God has called into the pastorate, but the woman who has his back--his faithful helpmate, his adviser, cheerleader, and companion---SHE is my true hero---she does it all and often without benefit of recognition or praise.So when talking of spiritual legacies----these women are paving the way---as heroes of the faith---their legacies are far reaching and eternally pleasing to The One who created them for "This very purpose". Today I am singing the praises of those unsung heroes!

“Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work.”